01.10.2024

PhD student (m/f/d) Ultrafast Resonant Magnetic X-ray Scattering

Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI), Berlin

The Max-Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI) conducts basic research in the field of nonlinear optics and ultrafast dynamics arising from the interaction of light with matter and pursues applications that emerge from this research. It develops and uses ultrafast and ultra-intense lasers and laser-driven short-pulse light sources in a broad spectral range in combination with methods of nonlinear spectroscopy. The spectral range includes in particular XUV radiation and soft x-rays, where experiments at in-house sources are complemented with the use of accelerator driven sources such as free electron x-ray lasers.

With its research, MBI fulfils a national mission and is an integral part of the international scientific community.

The Max-Born-Institute invites applications for a

PhD student (m/f/d)

in the field of Ultrafast Resonant Magnetic X-ray Scattering

The position is part of the newly established Leibniz Junior Research Group “Following Complex Spin Structures in Time and Space”. The group is utilizing unique laser-driven soft X-ray sources as well as large-scale facilities to investigate the ultrafast magnetization dynamics in (anti-)ferromagnetic nanostructures by temporally and spatially resolved resonant magnetic X-ray scattering techniques.

Job profile:

Magnetism is an essential part of current and future technologies, e.g. for storing and processing information, and is still one of the most fascinating and far-reaching phenomena in contemporary physics. Today, scientists utilize ultrashort light pulses to trigger and follow the most fundamental magnetic interactions on the relevant femto- to picosecond time scales, which generally also lead to a nanoscale spatial rearrangement of magnetization. The goal of the offered PhD position is to directly access the ultrafast evolution of spatially inhomogeneous spin profiles to gain a detailed picture of the underlying light-driven processes.

Over the last few years, we have developed a unique portfolio of laser-driven soft-X-ray sources, which we now utilize for pioneering laboratory-based soft-X-ray scattering experiments at MBI. You will employ these techniques to systematically study the spatiotemporal profiles of complex spin structures in ferromagnetic alloys, antiferromagnets, and heterostructures thereof. By modeling the experimental scattering data with our own software toolbox, you will decode the underlying magnetic interactions on their intrinsic time and length scales.

The entire project will be realized in an inspiring environment with state-of-the-art laser lab instrumentation, longstanding expertise, as well as national and international collaborations. You will be part of a young and enthusiastic team exploring a fascinating field at the forefront of fundamental physics.

Requirements:

We are looking for a student with a Master of Science or diploma degree in physics with above-average marks. You are highly motivated to perform laser and X-ray experiments as part of a team as well as independently. First experience with ultrashort laser pulses, magneto-optics, soft X-rays, vacuum technology, and data acquisition/analysis software (e.g. Python) is a plus, but not required. Further, you should be open-minded, creative, and interested in working in and communicating science at the intersection of ultrafast laser and X-ray physics.

Offer:

The researcher position is available as soon as possible and is initially limited to 3 years. The payment is according to the German TVöD (Bund) salary scheme for scientists in public research institutions (75%).

MBI is an equal-opportunity employer and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply.

If equally qualified, severely handicapped persons will be given preference.

MBI supports the reconcilability of family and working life and is certified by the audit workandfamily (audit berufundfamilie) as a family-friendly employer.

Please upload your application, including cover letter, curriculum vitae with a description of previous research activities, certificates, at least one reference and/or letter of recommendation electronically via the MBI online recruiting platform at https://mbi-berlin.de/career. The advertisement is open with immediate effect and will remain open until the position is filled.

For further information about the position, please contact Dr. Daniel Schick (schick(at)mbi-berlin.de).